VASRD 5253 · Musculoskeletal System – Hip/Thigh

Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) VA Disability Rating

Adduction and rotation limits in the thigh/hip reduce leg coordination and balance.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
20%Hip rotation is poor – can’t turn foot out or cross legs.
10%Thigh doesn’t move outwards well – affects walking and balance.

How the VA Evaluates Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)

Goniometric measurement of hip rotation, adduction, and abduction, orthopedic exam for muscle function.

Approval rate

Moderate – if motion loss affects gait or posture.

Annual service-connected

5,200 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Orthopedic exam showing loss of motion
  • •Gait assessment from PT or C&P exam
  • •Goniometer readings for each motion type

Strategy Tips

  • •Record precise measurements of each ROM type
  • •Explain impact on posture and walking
  • •Submit therapy logs showing failed improvement

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Incorrect toe-out measurement
  • •ROM testing performed while seated
  • •Failure to note impact on gait or function

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Claiming pain without functional ROM evidence
  • •Failing to note daily limitations like stair climbing

Onset Patterns

  • •May result from hip dislocation, trauma, or arthritis
  • •Can begin with tightness and worsen into immobility

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation). Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Balance Issues

    Restricted motion impairs gait mechanics.

  • Groin Strain

    Compensatory movement can strain nearby muscles.

Common questions about Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)

Is Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) under VASRD diagnostic code 5253 (Musculoskeletal System – Hip/Thigh). Adduction and rotation limits in the thigh/hip reduce leg coordination and balance.
What VA disability rating can I get for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)?
Possible VA ratings for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) are 20%, 10%. Examples: 20% — Hip rotation is poor – can’t turn foot out or cross legs.; 10% — Thigh doesn’t move outwards well – affects walking and balance..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)?
The average awarded rating for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) is 10%. Roughly 5,200 veterans are service-connected for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – if motion loss affects gait or posture..
What evidence helps prove Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) claim includes: Orthopedic exam showing loss of motion; Gait assessment from PT or C&P exam; Goniometer readings for each motion type.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)?
Common pitfalls when filing for Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation): Claiming pain without functional ROM evidence; Failing to note daily limitations like stair climbing.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation)?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) include: Balance Issues, Groin Strain. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Impairment of the Thigh (Adduction/Rotation) combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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